Infiniti just introduced the 2013 JX to their vehicle lineup. The JX is an all-new luxury crossover that was created to deliver inspired style, performance, roominess and innovative features, challenging the status quo in the segment. JX is a seven-passenger crossover with third-row seating.

If the Infiniti QX56 is too big for you, the JX35 should fill the bill for considerably less money, and with better fuel economy. Powering this latest Infiniti model is a 3.5-liter VQ35DE DOHC, 24-valve, 60-degree V6 engine with sequential multi-point fuel injection that delivers 265 hp, while also generating 248 lb ft of torque. The engine resides transversely up front and is coupled to Infiniti's first application of a continuously variable transmission, which is capable of mimicking a step transmission when the Sport mode of the drive selector is engaged. The CVT meters motive force to either the front wheels or optionally to all four wheels via Infiniti's Intelligent All-Wheel Drive.

The all-new Infiniti JX is no vanilla vehicle. Its styling is more contemporary and less futuristic in scope than some of its stablemates. One particularly nice touch is the bright cabin glass surround that traces the greenhouse profile. Lines are smooth and curves are gentle, delivering a pleasing and attractive exterior form.

The interior displays an elegance that befits the exterior. The dash and center console exhibit a graceful wave-like effect. The dash itself is relatively non-reflective, while the polished wood trim of the center console is highly reflective in bright sunlight, making it virtually impossible to read any of the buttons and controls. This is the only fault that I could find in the JX, whose key features include the emotive styling and quality craftsmanship that showcases Infiniti's new design direction, which was initiated with the Essence concept vehicle.

The elements in the Infiniti JX were designed to connect the vehicle occupants to the world around them, rather than shelter them from it. The JX35 represents a bold interpretation of what a seven-passenger luxury SUV should be.

The JX features a long wheelbase and short overhangs, along with a low roofline that doesn't compromise interior headroom. The modern exterior design is highlighted by the dramatic, double-arch front grille/headlight shape, double-wave hood and crescent-cut D-pillar greenhouse trim. A power sliding tinted glass moonroof with one-touch open/close, tilt action and sliding sunshade is standard, while an available panoramic moonroof with power rear sunshade adds an open, airy feeling in the aft cabin.

Leather-appointed seating is standard, along with heated front seats featuring an eight-way power driver's seat and six-way power front passenger's seat.

My test 2013 Infiniti JX35 AWD was a prototype vehicle, but it delivered outstanding quality in construction and performance. The exterior was sprayed in a rich Midnight Garnet, while the interior was executed in Java (a Bronze metallic effect) and Charcoal tones with polished wood trim accents. The base sticker read $41,550. The addition of the Premium Package, Theater Package, Deluxe Touring Package, Technology Package and destination and handling charges brought the final price to $54,800.

SUMMARY: The 2013 Infiniti JX35 sets an admirable standard for both interior space and comfort. It is loaded with a host of standard amenities and features, with state-of-the-art technology encompassing personal connectivity and safety, as well as comfort and convenience.

The JX is the first vehicle in the Infiniti lineup to offer Infiniti Connection and Infiniti Connection Plus services, to be added to other navigation-equipped models in the near future.

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Power is more than ample, and the CVT delivers smoothly graded shift points. The ride quality is comfortable, flat and stable. The JX35 FWD and JX35 AWD offer five available equipment options and four drive modes (Standard, Sport, Eco and Snow) through the Infiniti Drive Mode selector.

The company's first venture into the three-row luxury crossover market segment, the Infiniti JX is a tour de force.